“The process is about generating civic pride" as Fareham pushes ahead with bold regeneration plans
The focus is not on branding or logos.
That was the message from British designer Wayne Hemingway at a recent workshop exploring the future of Fareham’s town centre, held on January 16 at Lysses House Hotel. The event brought together business owners and stakeholders as part of Fareham Borough Council’s engagement around its town centre regeneration masterplan.
Mr Hemingway, part of the consultant team working on the project, said: “I want to be clear we are not here to produce a logo.
“The process is about generating civic pride and having a positive impact on people’s lives.”
Hemingway Design, in partnership with CT Consults, has worked on reinventing the image of places across the country such as The Humber, which is four combined authorities, to the city of Manchester and to the town of Lowestoft.
Mr Hemingway said: “This process aims to come up with a consensus of where Fareham is and where Fareham is going.
“It is not about politics; it’s about the place.
“It is about making the town centre the best it can be, from the shopping centre to the waterfront.
“It should cut across political divisions.”
The long-term goal, he said, is to create a shared approach that brings together partnership working for the good of Fareham.
Andrew Palmer of CT Consults said: “A ‘place brand’ should inform, inspire, and influence to build confidence collectively about Fareham.
“It’s about working in partnership and being apolitical to have an accumulative impact.”
He also emphasised the changing expectations of town centres and the importance of responding to generational needs.
Residents, businesses, and organisations interested in keeping up to date can find more information on the council’s website.
For further details, visit www.fareham.gov.uk and search for “regeneration.”